There is something about watching classic holiday movies that just makes us feel like kids again. Sure, there’s a ton of new options out there now, available to watch on a bazillion channels and streaming platforms, but nothing compares to the old-school flicks we watched as youngsters. Whether you’re feeling apprehensive about the season and need to get your head in the holiday game, or you’re just really ready to get festive, old-school holiday movies never disappoint.
Who cares if you’ve seen these films a million times? Yes, you’ve got the dialogue memorized and yes, you know how they end, but that’s part of what makes these movies so great. The familiarity and tradition behind them are super comforting. That’s why we’ve rounded up our top 12 favorite holiday movies ahead. Just put any one of these on, snuggle up with a mug of hot cocoa, and prepare to get that festive feeling ASAP.
Scrooged Two words: Bill. Murray. As a cynical television exec visited by three spirits on Christmas Eve (yes, this is a modern interpretation of the classic “A Christmas Carol”), the comedic genius is at his best.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Going home to see your (crazy) family this season? The Chevy Chase classic will make you feel totally normal — or at least not alone.
Elf Will Ferrell’s epic tale of a human raised by elves is iconic at this point. If smiling’s your favorite, this one’s a must watch.
Home Alone The hit holiday movie that made Macaulay Culkin a star is just as good as ever. Merry Christmas, ya filthy animal.
Love Actually This one’s a more recent flick but the 2003 rom-com was an instant classic in the post-9/11 era. The message of love being all around us still gives us a warm and fuzzy feeling.
The Holiday Real talk: the concept of Jude Law just showing up at the door of your house swap (what would now be an AirBnB) is questionable at best — but we’re willing to overlook it because this sweet romantic comedy just gives us all the feels.
A Christmas Story TBS plays this movie for 25 hours straight every Christmas and with good reason: it’s a GD national treasure. The leg lamp, the frozen pole, the mispronunciation of “fragile”: it’s all gold.
A Charlie Brown Christmas Want to REALLY feel like a kid again? Watch Charlie, Snoopy, and the rest of the gang search out the true meaning of Christmas. Just precious!
Miracle on 34th Street Kris Kringle goes on trial in this 1947 classic and it’s a must-see. It may even have you believing in Santa Claus again.
It’s A Wonderful Life Need a reminder to appreciate the positives in life? This is the iconic movie for you. Plus, Donna Reed is everything.
Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas Jim Carrey took his turn as The Grinch in the 2000 adaptation and it was as epic as you’d expect. Side note: stay tuned for the 2018 Benedict Cumberbatch version, too.
Eight Crazy Nights If you’ve ever felt like the only kid in town without a Christmas tree, Adam Sandler made this animated film about Chanukah, overcoming demons, and confronting the past. L’chaim!
What’s your favorite holiday movie? Tell us in the comments!
xo
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